Fin's Fish Guide
The Elongate pearlfish (Austrolebias elongatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Rivulidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The elongate pearlfish is a short-lived killifish from seasonal pools of southern South America, in the La Plata basin. The species grows to about 22 cm, large for an annual fish, and is an active predator; males are dark with blue scale margins, females plainer. It is an annual fish: the eggs survive the dry season in the mud until the rains refill the pools. It hunts small fish and large invertebrates. The fish appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Elongate pearlfish?
The Elongate pearlfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern. Large predatory annual fish; the eggs survive drought in the substrate
Where does the Elongate pearlfish live?
The Elongate pearlfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern South America
How big does the Elongate pearlfish get?
The Elongate pearlfish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Elongate pearlfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Elongate pearlfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Elongate pearlfish edible?
The Elongate pearlfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Austrolebias
More from the family Rivulidae
Want the complete picture on the Elongate pearlfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elongate pearlfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.